In this media literacy activity, students will analyze two videos featuring young climate activists as they try to show adults the gravity of the climate crisis.
This resource includes an activity plan and two video clips: Greta Thunberg's speech "I Want You to Panic" and Zayne Cowie's "'Goodbye, Earth': A Story for Grown-Ups."
Teaching Tips
Positives
The lesson plan includes discussion questions for several academic subjects.
Students will enjoy evaluating the two young activists' messages.
Additional Prerequisites
Teachers must create a free account to access the materials.
Differentiation
Students could respond to the questions individually or in small groups before discussing their answers as a class.
English language arts classes could discuss the tactics used in the videos and decide whether or not they were effective, then write their own persuasive speeches on climate action.
Other resources on this topic include this NowThis News video on climate projects led by youth activists, this video on how Greta Thunberg got involved in climate activism, and this lesson on the climate movement.
Scientist Notes
There is no contradiction in the resource. This resource provides an effective strategy for young people to advocate for social change and environmental justice. It is recommended for teaching.
Standards
Science and Engineering
ESS3: Earth and Human Activity
MS-ESS3-4 Construct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth’s systems.
Social Studies
Civics & Government
Civics & Government 1 (D1): Students understand the ideals, purposes, principles, structures, and processes of constitutional government in the United States and in the American political system, as well as examples of other forms of government and political systems in the world by evaluating and comparing the relationship of citizens with government in the United States and other regions of the world.
